Hellpoint Delayed Amid Coronavirus-Based Development Issues

Originally slated for a 16th April release on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC and Switch, Hellpoint has been delayed until "Q2 2020" amid development difficulties stemming from the global Coronavirus situation. To keep interest alive in the game, developer Cradle Games has also released a short teaser trailer showing off the game's protagonist, a 3D-printed creature known as The Spawn.

Despite the delay resulting from "the unprecedented events facing the world", Cradle Games' Creative Director, Matt Boudreau, assures players that the additional time will be used "not just for polishing, but also to address the feedback we’ve gathered and make Hellpoint an even better gaming experience for everybody!" This is in reference to the recent free chapter, The Thespian Feast, that was released for the public to playtest.

Taking place on the Irid Novo space station, a former monument to scientific discovery and human cooperation overrun with interdimensional abominations, Hellpoint merges a sci-fi/fantasy setting with the Souls-like genre. With challenging combat; a dark and cryptic story; and an interconnected world, this game is one to watch for fans of From Software's masterpiece Dark Souls series.

There's a twist on the formula, however, that should throw Souls veterans for a loop. Irid Novo is orbiting a black hole, meaning that the enemies, events and situations encountered aboard it will change dynamically as the player returns to locations, either organically or upon respawning after death. This 'Quantic System' will keep players on their toes and prevent the mindless loop of grinding the same area made inevitable by games in the Dark Souls series.

Online and local co-op capabilities mean that players needn't face Irid Novo's demonic nasties alone: the game's challenges, if needed, can be faced with a friend or well-meaning stranger.

Hellpoint is a title that's been on my radar since its announcement. While it's disappointing to hear about any delay, it hasn't dampened my enthusiasm for the game. As a sci-fi lover and Souls fan, this game since custom-made for players like me, and I can stand to wait a few more months, if needed.

Hellpoint release Q2 2020 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC and Switch.